Some of Hudson County's congressional delegation is seeking President Obama's help to secure 40,000 tons of rock salt for the area.

“The state of New Jersey has been among the hardest hit states this winter season, with more than 70 inches of snow accumulated in some parts of the state,” reads a letter Sens. Bob Menendez and Cory Booker sent Tuesday to Obama administration officials. “The governor has issued at least four state of emergency alerts. Several cities and municipalities are reporting shortages of rock salt, which has the potential to endanger motorists and the general public in future snow events.”

Rep. Albio Sires later added his support to the senators' call for Obama's help.

Last week, state transportation officials said that, thanks to a century-old maritime law, a ship carrying 40,000 tons of rock salt couldn't sail from Maine to the Port of Newark because it doesn't sail under the American flag.

To get the salt here, officials are sending a barge to pick up 9,500 tons of it and bring it to New Jersey by early next week, the Star-Ledger reports.